Go Back
+ servings
Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad

Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad: A Fresh Summer Must-Try

This Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad is a refreshing, nutritious dish perfect for summer picnics and quick dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta Choose short pasta like farfalle or orzo that holds dressing well.
For the Salad
  • 3.5 oz Fresh Arugula Adds a peppery bite.
  • 0.5 cup Walnuts Finely chopped; lightly toast for extra flavor.
  • 0.33 cup Parmesan or Pecorino Cheese Finely grated; fresh-grated is best.
  • 1 Lemon Juice and zest.
For the Dressing
  • 8 Tb Olive Oil A high-quality oil enhances flavor.
  • 1 Tb White Balsamic Vinegar Brightens flavor.
  • 2 tsp Dijon Mustard Functions as an emulsifier.
  • 1 Tb Capers Plus 1 tsp brine for balance.
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper Freshly cracked enhances flavor.
Optional
  • 6 Basil Leaves Chiffonade adds an herby aroma.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, until slightly softer than al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice and zest, white balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Incorporate capers and walnuts.
  3. While whisking, gradually drizzle in olive oil to emulsify and create a smooth dressing.
  4. Add cooled pasta to the dressing, gently tossing to coat. Let sit for a minute to absorb flavors.
  5. Fold in fresh arugula and optional basil leaves, allowing arugula to slightly wilt.
  6. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra lemon zest and Parmesan curls. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 9gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 490mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Rinse pasta thoroughly after cooking to prevent sogginess. Toast walnuts for enhanced flavor. Adjust dressing ingredients to taste.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!